Fan Makes 12,000 Mile Trip To Meet Footballing Hero Okazaki

- Kazunori Komagata attended Leicester City’s 2-1 Barclays Premier League win over Watford on 7 November 

- Koma explained how the Club and its players are growing in popularity in Japan 

Not only was the 2-1 victory over Watford on 7 November a significant moment for Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy, it was truly special day for one member of the Blue Army.

Kazunori Komagata, a City fan for over 20 years, completed a 12,000 mile round trip to see his team play for the first time. 

Not only did he get to see Vardy, who became the first Englishman ever to score in nine consecutive Barclays Premier League games, make history, he got the chance to meet one of Japan’s footballing heroes. 

Shinji Okazaki is Japan’s third highest goalscorer of all time and has represented his nation at two World Cups – his popularity in his home nation is undoubted, but he is not the only City star Japanese fans have taken to. 

Koma explained: “A lot of Japanese people have supported Leicester City since last season and this season. Especially, Okazaki’s joining had a big impact for Japanese people. 

“We couldn’t watch Leicester matches on TV last season, but now Okazaki is at the Club, we can watch every match on TV. There’s not only Okazaki, but Jamie Vardy and Claudio Ranieri are popular in Japan.”

Okazaki scored his second goal for the Club in the 3-0 win at Newcastle United earlier this month, but the very fact that Koma is able to watch one of his footballing idols play in the Premier League is fulfilling for him and Leicester’s Japanese following. 

Koma continued: “Shinji is very popular in Japan. My friends and colleagues who aren’t interested in football also know him, that’s how popular he is. 

“Vardy is also famous in Japan because of his goalscoring. Drinkwater is well-known too because of his unique family name. Now, he is recognised not only by his name, but also his skills in Japan.” 

Koma’s choice to follow Leicester stemmed from his upbringing. He grew up in Hokkaido, where he was surrounded by wild foxes – the decision to support the Foxes came naturally. 

Twenty years on, Koma is still a fan and he is thoroughly enjoying Leicester’s excellent start to the 2015/16 Premier League season. 

“I really enjoyed the great escape and now we are near the top of the table – fantastic! Obviously, Vardy and Riyad Mahrez are important players for us,” added Koma. 

“But I also think Albrighton is also a key factor – his crossing, dribbling and defensive work really help us and the duo of Drinkwater and Kanté also have important role. 

“Also, many players tweet about their private scene like Fuchs and Inler in this season. That’s very good for Japanese supporters because it allows them to feel attached to the players.” 

You can follow Koma’s Twitter account here:  

Koma also writes a blog on Leicester City, which can be found here: